by Nancy Hopper
He watched with deep reverence and humility, as she and Nolan approached. His uncle Nolan smiled his approval, as he gave Gary her delicate hand. He met the smoky eyes under the veil with a long, intense look as he drew her to his side.
The vows came hard for Gary, through his whirling emotions and dry throat. Tasha was smiling up at him, sheer adoration in her eyes. Her voice was soft and husky when it was her turn to give him her vows.
At last it was over, and he lifted the veil to reveal her soft, lovely face. He kissed her with a tenderness he felt from the bottom of his heart. He’d never known a lovelier woman; and he knew he never would.
Everyone else was enchanted by Tasha’s beauty and grace, as well. There was hardly time to breathe, for the next two hours.
Hugs and kisses, words of blessing and gifts abounded. It turned out to be quite a party, with much dancing and celebration. Though Tasha didn’t know most of the guests, she didn’t mind. She was happier than she could ever remember being in her life.
Gary was obviously happy, too. His smile lit up his whole face. But suddenly, the smile faded on his lips, and was replaced by a worried expression. He squeezed Tasha’s shoulders, and mumbled a request to be excused.
Tasha smiled in response, and watched uneasily as he crossed the crowded hall to greet a tall, distinguished man in a crisp, white uniform. His hair was graying the temples, and it made his clear blue eyes seem exceedingly sharp as they bored into Gary’s. A crooked grin split the stranger’s lips, and a tan hand fell onto Gary’s shoulder.
She was relieved to see Gary smile back. He led the stranger across the room, talking to the man with obvious pleasure. He grinned reassurance at Tasha, and took her hand.
“Tasha, honey, say hello to your father-in-law. His name is Leif.”
Tasha was incredulous. The resemblance was definite, but Gary had seldom mentioned having a father. “Hello, Mr. Taylor.” She managed to say.
“Tasha.” The man’s manner was totally charming, and there was clear appreciation in his eyes for the beautiful bride. He was almost overwhelming, and obviously knew how to get along with women.
“I’m afraid my flight from St. Louis was a bit late.” He explained ruefully.
“Oh, I’m sorry. Thank you for making such an effort to be here with us, anyway. Have a glass of Champagne, relax, and get something to eat.”
His crooked grin was so familiar that it was uncanny. “Don’t mind if I do.” He accepted. “Thanks.”
Tasha smiled as he excused himself, and walked to the buffet. Such straight shoulders, and proud carriage!
Gary certainly had inherited a great deal from his father, physically. Though Gary got his good looks honestly, his father had a dashing, reckless quality that Gary wouldn’t dream of displaying. Tasha correctly guessed that he was quite a lady’s man.
Gary’s low voice confirmed her suspicions. “Dad’s a pilot for Great Northern Airlines. He’s not around much.”
“I see.” Tasha mumbled.
“I wired him, but I never dreamed he’d come. He separated from mom six years ago. We haven’t heard much from him, since.”
“I’m glad he came.” She assured him gently.
“I hope we all have reason to be.” Gary grumbled worriedly.
Although Lydia’s smile was cool and formal, she greeted Gary’s father cordially. “Hello, Leif. Nice of you to come.”
“Thanks, Dia.” He replied in his swank, unruffled way. “You did this up with a bang.”
Lydia’s eyes rolled dangerously. “Oh, Leif. Behave yourself, for Gary’s sake.” She warned him.
He turned to Tasha with an injured expression. “Well, she did, didn’t she?”
Tasha bit her lip, and tried not to giggle. “She certainly did.” She agreed. “Did you get a piece of cake? It’s delicious, I insist that you have some.” She took his arm, and led him out of firing range.
He looked down at Tasha, with a raised eyebrow and a naughty grin. “Smart girl,” he said with a hint of regret. “I thought for a second Lydia was going to open fire.”
Tasha dimpled. “Quite possibly.” She admitted. “But I want everyone to have a great time, and besides, I want to get to know you.” She challenged him with a smile.
“Me? I’m just a bachelor pilot, lady. Not much to tell.”
“You seem interesting to me,” she said lightly. “You are hardly the inconspicuous type.”
He snorted. “I suppose not.” He agreed lightly. “Neither are you. Where did you meet Gary, anyway?” he asked curiously.
“At Ruth’s. Actually, I guess it’s really Gary’s house. But Ruth and Nolan were living there this summer. I came to visit them.”
“So, is he still totally immersed in this church stuff?”
“You still need to ask?” Gary answered, from behind Tasha’s shoulder.
“Pity.” Leif said, lightly. “Well, at least you’ve done this much very well. This girl is something else.”
“Isn’t she, though?” He agreed. His strong hands caressing her waist made Tasha quiver inside.
CHAPTER SEVEN
Juneau was gorgeous! Tasha smiled at the blue water, the green hills, the colorful streets along the docks, the mountains that surrounded everything, the tall trees. Tasha was convinced that her husband’s arm about her shoulders was all that kept her from floating away.
After a couple hours of shopping and sight-seeing, Gary finally smiled down at her, and suggested they go on to the lodge.
Tasha agreed. Though she wanted to see all of the city, it had already been quite a day. The flight had been beautiful though, clear and sunny with both the Pacific and numerous mountain ranges to see along the way.
Gary hailed a taxi. The driver grinned when Gary gave the address, and took them up through lovely hills overshadowed by evergreens. The twisting road enchanted Tasha. The scenery was wonderful, and only got better as they climbed. Looking back on the harbor was breathtaking.
Tasha was completely enchanted when they pulled in at a rustic lodge built of massive logs, overlooking a crystal clear lake.
“Gary, it’s beautiful! However did you find it?”
“It belongs to a friend of mine, and his wife. You’ll love them, honey.”
Tasha wasn’t so sure she wanted friends so close just now, but she didn’t say so. She took the hand Gary offered, and stepped from the cab. Gary’s lips curved into a smile as his eyes lingered on the dainty red shoes, and shapely legs. Her red skirt was slit to give him a glimpse of lovely thigh. The black and white herringbone suit coat was short and chic, over a red and white pinstripe silk blouse. Red and white Carnations gathered into a corsage, made it perfect.
A shiny head of auburn hair raised as they entered the lodge.
“Gary, you’re finally home!” The girl behind the desk cried. Freckled, with dancing green eyes, she was pretty in an impish way. She flitted around the desk, and her arms flew around Gary’s neck in an enthusiastic embrace.
“Hello, Delanie.” Gary chuckled affectionately. “How have you been?”
“Just fine. Does Joe know you’ve come?”
“I doubt that. Unless, he saw us get out of the cab. I hope the honeymoon suite is available?” He asked nonchalantly.
“As usual, it is. Why do you ask?” The girl asked, venturing a curious look beyond Gary’s shoulder at Tasha.
“Why does he ask what?” A laughing voice boomed. “Hey, Gary. How are you, buddy?”
“Pretty good, Joe.” Gary said, hugging the big man soundly. “Glad to hear everything has been good for you, too.”
“You bet. Gary, I hope you brought a whip along, if you plan to protect this pretty lady for long. She’s going to be popular, if I don’t miss my guess. If you’re single, sister, you’ve come to the right place to change your status. There’s a lot of single men in this town.”
“She’s very married and she’s not interested in changing that.” Gary informed him immediately.
“Too bad
.” Joe laughed.
“I sure hope she doesn’t agree. I know I don’t. Considering that it’s her wedding day, you really ought to have more respect for her husband’s feelings.” He pulled Tasha forward, and slipped his arm around her waist.
Joe and Delanie both looked as though they had been slapped. Joe ran a big, square hand through his sandy beard thoughtfully. “Are you trying to convince us that this beautiful young thing just hitched up with you? I don’t believe it.” he grumbled in amazement.
“Gary, I had no idea you had a special girl in Oregon.” Delanie marveled.
“I didn’t.” Gary admitted happily.
“You sure must work fast, then. And you’re a very lucky dog.” Joe told him emphatically.
“Tell me.” Gary agreed, with a grin. “Do you think maybe you could show us to the honeymoon suite? Please?”
“No way.” Joe responded sharply. “I haven’t even had time to congratulate you. You ain’t going anyplace, just yet!”
Gary laughed, and allowed Joe the bear hug he’d have had trouble refusing. Delanie hugged him again; and then Tasha was being gathered into warm, friendly arms.
“Welcome to Alaska, Mrs. Taylor.” Joe said with wonder.
“Thank you. Call me Tasha.” She suggested.
“Tasha? We’re very glad to have you. I know you’ll love it here.” Delanie greeted her.
“I’m sure I will.” Tasha agreed, smiling up at Gary.
The honeymoon suite was spacious and comfortable, if a bit rustic. The cedar walls were hung with taxidermy and oil paintings, the floors were hard wood with animal hide area rugs. A set of French doors led out onto a small verandah overlooking the lake.
“Gary, this is marvelous!” Tasha sighed.
“Not too rustic for you?”
“Not at all. I love it!” She assured him.
“Come here.” He ordered in a low growl.
“Whatever fo-ah?” She bantered, fluttering her eyelashes at him playfully.
“Because I want to introduce you to this very big, very comfortable, very inviting feather bed, my dear.” He threatened, with a predatory smile.
“Oh, I am very sorry, Suh, but I don’t think that would be quite prop-ah.” She answered primly. She made a careful study of her long, perfect, red nails.
He approached her slowly, battle lights snapping in his blue eyes. “You may be right about that, madam, but I’m afraid I really don’t give a damn.” he growled. He pounced, and Tasha squealed as he swung her up into his arms.
“Put me down, you ba-rute!” She gasped, between giggles. “I will nev-vah...”
Her words were cut off as she sank under his weight into the softness of the bed; and his lips began an immediate, thorough plunder of hers. Tasha groaned, feeling his muscles like steel against her softness. Never before had he been so open with his feelings for her. His very obvious arousal sent her heart hammering.
“Tasha. How I love you.” he whispered. “and how much I want you. Thank God, we’re finally married. I don’t know how much longer I could’ve stood it.”
“Gary, darling. I know.” she confessed huskily.
Gary’s eyes smoldered as he slipped the dainty shoes from Tasha’s feet. Her senses lurched as his hand slid up the outside of her thigh to unfasten her stockings from their garters. Then he kissed her, causing havoc with her breathing as his lips moved to her soft neck.
“Gary!” she gasped.
“Hmm.” he growled. He pulled her to a sitting position, slipped her jacket from her shoulders. His sure fingers removed the combs which kept her unruly black waves of hair out of her face.
“Shall I ... what would you like to do about dinner?” she asked breathlessly.
“Dinner?” he parroted woodenly.
“Well; yes. Aren’t you hungry?” she asked brightly.
“I couldn’t care ... ” He saw the panic-stricken look in her eyes, and bit off the sentence. “ ... less if we go downstairs or have room service. As long as we’re together, we’ll do whatever makes you happy.” he finished tightly.
Tasha’s tremulous smile shredded his heart. “You’re a darling, Gary.” she whispered.
“For now.” he warned, his eyes glinting mischievously.
“I have a special dress I’d planned to wear.” she explained brightly, blushing.
“Did you? Let’s see it.” Gary encouraged, willing his pulse to return to normal, and all the other sensations he was experiencing to recede, for the time being.
Tasha smiled and skipped to her suitcase to retrieve what she wanted.
His hands on her waist jolted her upright. “Surely you’re not afraid of me, Tasha?” he asked worriedly against her ear.
Tasha turned in his arms, her eyes wide. “Of course not. I think it’s just an attack of nerves. I’ve never been ... married before, that’s all.” she said, feeling brutal. “And I’m starving!”
“I’m glad to hear it.” he assured her with a chuckle. He decided that her reticence was an entirely pleasant surprise, actually. He’d wondered sometimes given Tasha’s initial, sultry come on to him, if she was coming to the marriage with experience.
He smiled wryly. He rather doubted it now, and it pleased him to know. She could certainly put on an act, he thought, with a chuckle.
Tasha’s smoky, silver dinner dress clung shamelessly to her petite curves and shimmered with her every movement. Gary shook his head and laughed helplessly as she emerged from the bathroom, a vision of lovely, sophisticated and very sexy elegance.
“I don’t know that Alaska’s ready for you.” He warned. “You look extremely enticing.” His eyes skimmed her bare shoulders and graceful neckline as she approached him.
“Thank you, Mr. Taylor. I think Alaska will survive.” she predicted. Her make-up was smoky and sexy, but very skillfully done. She looked divine.
They entered the elevator, and smiled to find that they were still alone. Tasha felt oddly shy with Gary, though she couldn’t fathom just why. She knew she was blushing, but she couldn’t help it. Gary chuckled and squeezed her to himself quickly, before the doors opened again.
The dining room was dimly lit for intimacy, and warmed by a roaring central fire. Tasha loved the atmosphere, especially when she saw snowflakes drifting down outside the window.
“Gary, look! Isn’t it perfect?” she bubbled excitedly.
“Snow? Perfect?” he snorted. “If you say so.”
“I do. It’s romantic.” she sighed, touching his hand across the table.
His grin flashed. “I’m beginning to see your point.” he chuckled, eyes glowing. “You know, the view is much better from our room.”
“The view?” she asked dubiously.
“Of course. I can’t wait to show you. The valley is wonderful when it snows.” he assured her innocently.
Tasha snickered. “You’re a terrible liar, Gary. But I promise not to linger.”
In addition to fresh, grilled salmon, they were served baked potatoes, green salad, clam chowder, broccoli in cheese sauce, a light champagne and chocolate mousse for dessert.
“Gary, I’m stuffed.” Tasha complained, throwing her napkin down with resignation.
“It’s about time.” Gary drawled, helping her up from her chair. “I thought we were going to be here all night.”
“You poor man.” she teased, laughing at the look he shot her.
Tasha discovered that Gary hadn’t lied. The view from their balcony was breathtaking. The light covering of snow turned the valley into an enchanted place.
“You’re off to a good start in Alaska if you’re so happy to see snow on the thirtieth of September.” Gary chuckled, pleased by the way she’d run outside without a coat, and didn’t mind at all that she had snow in her hair, and on her sweet face.
“It’s always welcome as far as I’m concerned.” Tasha murmured.
“And what about me?” Gary asked, his eyes twinkling. “Will I always be welcome, too?”
Tasha let h
er eyes answer him. “Always, darling.” She promised huskily.
Gary’s answering kiss was intense and possessive, and left her breathless. She ran her fingers through his soft hair, as his lips explored the contours of her throat and the hollow below it. His hands slid over her shoulders with a gentle caress that gave her shivers.
“I love you, Tasha.” He confessed softly. “I wouldn’t trade places with any man in the world tonight.” He swung her up into his arms, and carried her to the bed. Tasha sank deeply into the softness of the feathers under Gary’s weight, once again. The flame of his tongue was hot and tantalizing against her skin, then sweet and exciting against her own tongue.
The shimmering dress came off and slid to the floor, unheeded. Gary smiled appreciatively at the white lace teddy beneath, and slowly began unhooking the pearl buttons that fastened the garment from top to bottom.
“Is this a test of my patience, Tasha?” He asked calmly. “If so, you may be sorry. What if I use up all my patience, now? It may be that you’d appreciate a bit of it later on, don’t you think?”
Tasha blushed as Gary slipped the teddy down, and worked it over her hips. She was glad when he pulled back the covers, and allowed her to slip between the burgundy satin sheets.
“If you aren’t a sight.” He complimented softly. He sank to the bed beside her, letting his eyes feast and wander as they chose. “You’re so very beautiful, Tasha Mine. But I knew you would be.” He murmured.
He released his cuff links and let them clatter to the night stand. His dinner jacket joined her dress on the floor, his shoes fell into a heap alongside hers.
Tasha’s uncertain fingers loosened his tie and unfastened the buttons on his soft shirt. When she was finished, he made short work of shedding the rest of his clothes, and joined her in the bed.
His warmth against her jolted Tasha to a new awareness of him, and caused butterflies to fill her stomach. She was embarrassed that she was uneasy; and embarrassed that she hadn’t even been able to look at him.
